Heat blamed for 16 deaths in India

Extreme heat in northwestern India was blamed for the deaths of 16 people, officials said. Temperatures have been soaring in Uttar Pradesh, reaching 117 degrees in Mahoba and 114 in Sultanpur district, the Indo-Asian News Service reported Monday. Police said the heat was blamed for at least 11 deaths in the Bundelkhand area, two in Barabanki and three in Lucknow since Sunday. Officials said at least three of the deceased were found lying on pavement. The Indian weather office said the heat is not showing signs of letting up, with the first season's monsoon possible later this week.